Sampson needs to overcome wide draw

THERE is a very tough card for punters to chew on at the Vaal today but Hieronymus in Race 5, a MR 71 Divided Handicap over 1800m should give us a run for our money.

Hieronymus took his time to get out of the maiden ranks but did beat subsequent winner Cheat The Cheaters over 1600m at Turffontein in January.

The Judpot gelding then took a few shots at some decent fields and was mostly unsuccessful but did finish runner-up behind Pagoda over this distance at Turffontein in March. That form is good enough to give him a shout at winning this race.

Jockey Deon Sampson has been aboard the three-year-old in most of his runs so will know how to negotiate his terrible draw.

Sean Tarry-trained Hamaan has been disappointing in his last few starts but is clearly a danger in this race. Others to watch are Fangia and American Tiger.

Once again the better bets are likely to come a lot earlier in this card with Crush in Race 1 and Mutawaary in Race 2 looking probable winners.

Crush ran by far her best race last time out when third behind Street Life. If she repeats that run she may be a bit better than the Mike Azzietrained Llandudno.

The Azzie yard is in very good form and there is sure to be improvement from the Querari colt. Lalandudno was only fifth on debut and followed up with a well-beaten third place behind Rebel’s Champ. However, this longer distance should suit him.

Mutawaary looked an unlucky loser on debut when beaten a neck by Alex The Great so it was a bit surprising to see the Australian import run such a disappointing second start when only fourth behind For a few dollars more. The Hit chenbrook juvenile did too much too early that day though and he is likely to be a lot smarter this time.

Callan Murray, who was aboard Mutawaary in both his starts is currently riding in Hong Kong and did pick up a winner yesterday.